Officials in the quintessential Cotswolds village of Bibury have launched a public consultation on plans to permanently ban tourist coaches, a move aimed at reclaiming the village from the grips of overtourism.
The Heart of the Problem
Bibury, frequently described as "the most beautiful village in England", attracts thousands of visitors, but this popularity has come at a cost. The influx has led to severe traffic congestion and raised significant safety concerns for both residents and visitors alike.
In an attempt to manage the situation, temporary restrictions were first introduced in May 2025. These initial measures involved closing specific parking bays and installing public bus stop clearways to improve safety for passengers alighting and boarding buses.
The Proposed Solution
The new proposal seeks to make these restrictions permanent. The initiative is strongly supported by the Bibury One community group, which has long campaigned for action.
The primary goals of the potential ban are threefold:
- To significantly reduce traffic congestion in the village centre.
- To enhance safety for pedestrians and motorists.
- To protect the unique character and charm of Bibury for future generations.
The consultation is not limited to the coach ban alone. It also includes ancillary plans for the implementation of new loading bays and dedicated disabled parking spaces, aiming to balance the needs of residents with the desire to manage tourism.
Have Your Say
The fate of the coach ban now rests on public opinion. The consultation period is currently open and will run until 3 December 2025, giving locals, businesses, and other stakeholders a chance to shape the future of their community.
This decisive action highlights the growing challenge faced by many of the UK's most picturesque destinations as they struggle to balance international appeal with local quality of life.
